Best Pottawattamie County Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers capital campaign grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations, particularly those enhancing arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. While the Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications, eligible organizations can request an invitation to apply. Grants typically support significant renovation or expansion projects, aiming to foster long-term viability and special initiatives. Preference is given to projects in the Sioux City area, with a focus on stimulating matching funds.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

CDBG 2024 Disaster Recovery - Buyout

Purpose

This grant program is designed to help local jurisdictions move forward with critical infrastructure and recovery efforts following a disaster. FEMA requires state and local governments to contribute a “local share” or “match” toward eligible projects, but these costs can be difficult for communities already stretched thin by emergency response, recovery needs, and reduced revenues. The Non‑Federal Match Program provides CBG-DR funding support as match to ease that burden for FEMA’s HMGP and FEMA-Project Assistance Programs. In addition to assisting with required match funding, CDBG‑DR resources may also be used to enhance HMGP Buyout projects when communities can demonstrate remaining unmet recovery needs, lack of alternative funding options, and a clear connection to long‑term resilience and restoration goals.

FY27 RFP FWBPECA27001 for Thrive Iowa - Early Intervention and Support

Purpose

The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) # FWBPECA27001 is to solicit applications that will enable the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (referred to as Agency) to select the most qualified applicants to serve as the backbone organization(s) for the Thrive Iowa initiative.

Thrive Iowa is a community-led initiative to move families from crisis to career utilizing the collective impact model with support from Restore Hope. The initiative’s overarching goals include family stability in 13 areas of Social Determinants of Health with an emphasis on family preservation and prevention of child welfare crisis. The initiative provides training, collaborative case management, and technical support to create sustainable, impactful changes in each participating site.

The Futuro Latino Fund Grant, administered by the Omaha Community Foundation, empowers Latino communities in the Omaha-Council Bluffs area by funding initiatives that enhance cultural enrichment, socioeconomic well-being, and civic participation. With an annual budget of up to $150,000, the grant supports diverse projects focusing on arts, youth, health, and organizational capacity. Applications from organizations prioritizing Latino representation are encouraged, promoting sustainable practices and collaboration to effectively address community needs.

The African American Unity Fund Grant, managed by the Omaha Community Foundation, supports initiatives that benefit the African American community in Omaha. Funding prioritizes arts, basic human needs, community development, health, and capacity building. Collaboration among organizations is encouraged, and applicants must align with non-discrimination policies. There are no budget limits, and both new and previous applicants may apply. This initiative seeks impactful solutions tailored to the community's needs.

The Fund for Omaha Grant, managed by the Omaha Community Foundation, aims to strengthen local nonprofits by addressing funding gaps and enhancing community services. Priorities include economic opportunity, affordable housing, maternal health, and mental health support. Eligible applicants are public, tax-exempt organizations serving the Omaha area with annual budgets of $5 million or less. This initiative fosters connections and improves community well-being by providing essential resources and opportunities.

The Richard A. Shaw Fund Grant honors Richard A. Shaw's legacy by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on history, natural sciences, and outdoor education, as well as animal welfare initiatives, particularly equine therapy. Grants of up to $3,500 are available for public schools and qualifying nonprofits in the Omaha area. This fund aims to nurture an appreciation for history and nature in young minds, ensuring Richard's influence continues in the community.

The Black Hills Charitable Giving Program supports community growth by providing sponsorships and donations to eligible organizations. Focused on thriving communities, conservation, and nurturing future leaders, it invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and schools. Funding priorities include critical needs like food security and education, while requests benefiting individuals or political causes are generally not funded. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 120 days.

Basin Electric Power Cooperative's Charitable Giving Program focuses on supporting communities across its nine-state service territory. The program reviews funding requests periodically and allocates donations to various categories, including education, health services, civic betterment, and cultural initiatives. Additionally, it offers matching funds for member donations and contributes surplus office equipment to organizations in need. This commitment to community growth and sustainability reflects Basin Electric's mission to enhance the well-being of its members.

About

The Advancing Communities grant program helps communities across Nebraska and southwest Iowa develop or enhance spaces that are inviting to all citizens, enabling connection through social, recreational, historical and civic engagement. By supporting capital projects that make great community assets — from libraries and youth rec centers to parks, trails, museums and more — we encourage our neighbors to get out and explore.

Advancing Communities Grant

Projects for consideration should align with the following themes:

• Shared spaces such as libraries, parks, trails and community centers — that encourage engagement and make towns more vibrant places to live, work and gather.
• Innovative ideas and forward-thinking approaches that engage multiple generations, introduce new ideas or bring fresh energy into existing community spaces.
• Community-led efforts, including partnerships among public, private and nonprofit sectors, with priority given to initiatives that demonstrate collaboration, local investment and community-driven vision.
• Sustainable, ready-to-launch projects that have secured at least 60% of their total funding and show clear plans for long-term maintenance, sustainability and measurable community benefit.

Grant amounts:

Applicants may request up to $250,000 for one time capital support.

Deadlines:

Applications for this program can be submitted at any time.

The United Way of the Midlands’ (UWM) Community Care Fund Grant aims to tackle social and economic disparities in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. This initiative supports a variety of impactful programs, backed by over 40,000 donors. UWM emphasizes equity and community engagement in its funding decisions, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed. The grant process is competitive, with applicants encouraged to focus on specific health and human service areas.

The Data Center Community Grants Program (US-CBF) supports nonprofit organizations that enhance their local communities surrounding Google data centers. Funding is available for projects focused on education, economic opportunity, bridging the digital divide, sustainability, health, and arts. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, prioritizing measurable community benefits and innovative approaches. Eligible projects must demonstrate long-term impact, while operational expenses are generally ineligible. This initiative aims to empower underserved groups and foster collaboration within local ecosystems.

The Creche Childhood Education Fund Grant, established by the Omaha Community Foundation, aims to support educational programming for children in the Omaha metro area. Grants, totaling about $25,000, are awarded to public 501(c)(3) organizations that provide services to underserved children up to 12 years old. Organizations can apply annually but are eligible to receive funds only once every three years. Notably, grant money cannot be used for operating expenses.

Nebraska Medical Center supports non-profit organizations aiming to serve vulnerable populations and address major health issues like cancer, mental health, and prenatal care. They prioritize funding for initiatives aligned with community health improvement, specifically benefiting underserved groups. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations and submit proposals 60 days prior to events. However, they do not fund activities related to debt retirement, scholarships, or religious programming.

The Jetton Charitable Fund Grant aims to enhance youth cultural education in Omaha through performing and visual arts, and natural sciences. Grants of $20,000 and more support organizations with a minimum of 5 years as 501(c)(3) nonprofits, serving over 1,000 students annually. Eligible programs focus on broad community engagement and educational initiatives. Special considerations may extend funding to organizations in Lincoln and across Nebraska and Southwest Iowa, emphasizing programmatic support with some capacity building exceptions.

The LGBTQIA+ Equality Fund Grant supports initiatives that foster inclusion, respect, and understanding for LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. Through collaboration with local organizations, this fund aims to empower diverse voices, enhance community visibility, and ensure equitable access to essential services. Focus areas include workforce training, accessible healthcare, and homelessness prevention. The grant prioritizes innovative programs that uplift the LGBTQIA2S+ community, promoting a strong network of support for all community members.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The Immanuel Vision Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) nonprofits that align with their mission of meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seniors, enhancing community health, and supporting the ministry of the Church. Since 2015, the Foundation has prioritized organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and financial stability, while addressing strategic health concerns in Nebraska and select Iowa counties. Special consideration is given to initiatives focused on seniors and community health, ensuring a culture of wellness and dignity.

The Henry K. Peterson Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations providing services to the disabled population of Southwest Iowa. Established to honor Henry K. Peterson, a notable figure in Iowa's legal and civic communities, this foundation awards approximately $10,000 annually to promote impactful philanthropic initiatives. Through its efforts, the Foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, fostering community growth and support.

The Southwest Iowa Mental Health and Substance Abuse Fund Grant, managed by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, aims to enhance nonprofit service providers' capacity to address mental health and substance abuse issues. By focusing on education, awareness, and training, the fund seeks to create sustainable positive impacts in communities across nine Iowa counties. This initiative responds to pressing community needs and works to reduce stigma while improving access to essential services.

The PCIF Community Impact Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents in Pottawattamie County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government entities. The grants focus on various sectors such as arts, education, health, and community improvement. In the last funding cycle, 42 grants totaling $65,364 were awarded, emphasizing the Foundation's commitment to fostering impactful community initiatives.

The Women's Fund of Southwest Iowa, established by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, aims to empower women and families in the region. Through strategic partnerships and community insights, the fund supports initiatives that enhance women's self-sufficiency, health, and engagement. Eligible projects must serve primarily women and align with focus areas like health, education, and childcare. This grant provides critical support for programs fostering positive change in southwest Iowa communities.

The Lozier Foundation

Formed in 1986, The Lozier Foundation is a family foundation funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The foundation’s focus is education, social services and issues involving women and children with an emphasis on the inner city and underrepresented populations.

Our Mission: The Lozier Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the underrepresented communities in the Omaha/Metro area.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Capital Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The Capital Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.